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Okra Growing Guide
Malvaceae family
Companion Planting
Growth Stages
- Seedling
- Vegetative Growth
- Flowering
- Fruiting / Harvest Ready
Planting Dates by Zone
| Zone | Start Indoors | Transplant | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1a | Apr 27 | Jun 15 | Jun 15 | Aug 4 |
| Zone 1b | Apr 27 | Jun 15 | Jun 15 | Aug 4 |
| Zone 2a | Apr 17 | Jun 5 | Jun 5 | Jul 25 |
| Zone 2b | Apr 27 | Jun 15 | Jun 15 | Aug 4 |
| Zone 3a | Apr 24 | Jun 12 | Jun 12 | Aug 1 |
| Zone 3b | Apr 17 | Jun 5 | Jun 5 | Jul 25 |
| Zone 4a | Apr 7 | May 26 | May 26 | Jul 15 |
| Zone 4b | Apr 3 | May 22 | May 22 | Jul 11 |
| Zone 5a | Mar 31 | May 19 | May 19 | Jul 8 |
| Zone 5b | Mar 31 | May 19 | May 19 | Jul 8 |
| Zone 6a | Mar 31 | May 19 | May 19 | Jul 8 |
| Zone 6b | Mar 18 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 25 |
| Zone 7a | Mar 18 | May 6 | May 6 | Jun 25 |
| Zone 7b | Mar 13 | May 1 | May 1 | Jun 20 |
| Zone 8a | Mar 8 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | Jun 15 |
| Zone 8b | Feb 22 | Apr 12 | Apr 12 | Jun 1 |
| Zone 9a | Feb 20 | Apr 10 | Apr 10 | May 30 |
| Zone 9b | Feb 10 | Mar 31 | Mar 31 | May 20 |
| Zone 10a | Jan 23 | Mar 13 | Mar 13 | May 2 |
| Zone 10b | Dec 31 | Feb 18 | Feb 18 | Apr 9 |
| Zone 11a | Dec 31 | Feb 18 | Feb 18 | Apr 9 |
| Zone 11b | Dec 18 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Mar 27 |
| Zone 12a | Dec 4 | Jan 22 | Jan 22 | Mar 13 |
| Zone 12b | Dec 4 | Jan 22 | Jan 22 | Mar 13 |
| Zone 13a | Dec 4 | Jan 22 | Jan 22 | Mar 13 |
| Zone 13b | Dec 4 | Jan 22 | Jan 22 | Mar 13 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to grow Okra?
Okra takes approximately 60 days from planting to harvest.
How much sun does Okra need?
Okra requires full sun (6+ hours direct sunlight per day).
How far apart should I plant Okra?
Plant Okra at 1/sqft (12" apart) using square foot gardening spacing.
Can Okra survive frost?
Okra is frost-sensitive and should not be exposed to frost.
What are good companion plants for Okra?
Good companion plants for Okra include Melons, Eggplant, Cucumbers, Peppers, Basil.
How long does Okra take to germinate?
Okra seeds germinate in 7-14 days at an optimal temperature of 85°F.
When should I start Okra seeds indoors?
Start Okra seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant 3 weeks after last frost.
Growing Tips
- Direct sow when soil is 65°F or warmer; soak seeds overnight first
- Harvest pods every 1-2 days to keep plants producing
- Pods become fibrous and tough if left too long on the plant
Common Pests & Diseases
- Aphids
- Corn earworm
- Root-knot nematodes
- Fusarium wilt
Harvest Notes
Cut pods with pruners when 2-4 inches long and still tender. Larger pods become woody. Wear gloves and long sleeves as leaves can irritate skin.
Plan Your Okra Garden
Track Okra from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.
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